SOME QUESTIONS CONCERNING HERESY & HERETICS

[George]

Brother Timothy,

I hope to have a full and complete answer to your questions soon. For now, I will just say that I believe that the key to this whole issue has to do with - just exactly WHAT was it that the Apostle Paul was confessing to when he said:

Acts 24:14 But this I confess unto thee, that after the way which they call heresy, so worship I the God of my fathers, believing all things which are written in the law and in the prophets:
15 And have hope toward God, which they themselves also allow, that there shall be a resurrection of the dead, both of the just and unjust.  

Since this is the only verse in the Bible with the word "heresy" in it (1Corinthians 11:19; Galatians 5:20; 2Peter 2:1 have the word "heresies" in them, but none of them shed any light on the definition of the word), and the only verse that can shed light on the meaning of the word, we will have to know just exactly WHAT was "the way" that Paul freely confessed to, but to which the Jews believed was contrary to one of the major tenants of their faith (i.e. "heresy").

[George]

HERESY & HERETICKS {Part I}

Acts 24:14 But this I confess unto thee, that after the way which they call heresy, so worship I the God of my fathers, believing all things which are written in the law and in the prophets:

This is the first (and only) time the word “heresy” (singular) shows up in the Bible and it is the only verse that gives the Scriptural meaning (i.e. definition) of the word.

In order to understand the meaning of the word “heresy” (without running off to "the Greek”) we are going to have to examine the time and the circumstances (i.e. “the context”) in which the word first occurs in the Holy Bible. {i.e. the King James Bible}

Acts 24:14 occurs many years (approximately 21-24 years) after the Apostle Paul’s initial calling by God [Acts 9:1-16]. The historical context of the events is after Paul’s Third Missionary Journey; and after many of his Epistles (Letters) were written; and after the establishment of the church of God in many cities & towns throughout much of the Mediterranean area.

In other words the Jews in Israel, after dealing with Peter, James, John, and the rest of the Lord Jesus Christ’s disciples (and their many converts [Acts 21:20-21] – mostly Jews) for approximately 25 years, were very familiar with some of the apostles beliefs and teachings, and had already heard about the Apostle Paul and his dealings with the Gentiles. And they were obviously aware of at least some of the doctrine he was teaching (especially the inclusion of the hated Gentiles into “the household of God”); and of his active involvement in the establishment and growth of the many churches that were popping up all over the Roman Empire; and they had a genuine concern that Paul’s teachings were subverting the Mosaic Law and the Jews’ religion and traditions.  

The following are some of the charges (all false) that were brought against the Apostle Paul by the Jews of his day:

•  He taught “all the Jews which are among the Gentiles to forsake Moses”; and “not to circumcise their children”; and not “to walk after the customs”.

•  He taught “all men every where against the people {i.e. the Jews}, and the law, and this place {i.e. the Temple}”

Acts 21:20 And when they heard it, they glorified the Lord, and said unto him, Thou seest, brother, how many thousands of Jews there are which believe; and they are all zealous of the law:
21 And they are informed of thee, that thou teachest all the Jews which are among the Gentiles to forsake Moses, saying that they ought not to circumcise their children, neither to walk after the customs.

Acts 21:27 And when the seven days were almost ended, the Jews which were of Asia, when they saw him in the temple, stirred up all the people, and laid hands on him,
28 Crying out, Men of Israel, help: This is the man, that teacheth all men every where against the people, and the law, and this place: and further brought Greeks also into the temple, and hath polluted this holy place.


ACTS 22: THE APOSTLE PAUL’S DEFENCE BEFORE HIS BRETHREN (The Jews)

Acts 22:1 Men, brethren, and fathers, hear ye my defence which I make now unto you.
2 (And when they heard that he spake in the Hebrew tongue to them, they kept the more silence: and he saith,)
3 I am verily a man which am a Jew, born in Tarsus, a city in Cilicia, yet brought up in this city at the feet of Gamaliel, and taught according to the perfect manner of the law of the fathers, and was zealous toward God, as ye all are this day.
4 And I persecuted this way unto the death, binding and delivering into prisons both men and women.
5 As also the high priest doth bear me witness, and all the estate of the elders: from whom also I received letters unto the brethren, and went to Damascus, to bring them which were there bound unto Jerusalem, for to be punished.
6 And it came to pass, that, as I made my journey, and was come nigh unto Damascus about noon, suddenly there shone from heaven a great light round about me.
7 And I fell unto the ground, and heard a voice saying unto me, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me?
8 And I answered, Who art thou, Lord? And he said unto me, I am Jesus of Nazareth, whom thou persecutest.
9 And they that were with me saw indeed the light, and were afraid; but they heard not the voice of him that spake to me.
10 And I said, What shall I do, Lord? And the Lord said unto me, Arise, and go into Damascus; and there it shall be told thee of all things which are appointed for thee to do.
11 And when I could not see for the glory of that light, being led by the hand of them that were with me, I came into Damascus.
12 And one Ananias, a devout man according to the law, having a good report of all the Jews which dwelt there,
13 Came unto me, and stood, and said unto me, Brother Saul, receive thy sight. And the same hour I looked up upon him.
14 And he said, The God of our fathers hath chosen thee, that thou shouldest know his will, and see that Just One, and shouldest hear the voice of his mouth.
15 For thou shalt be his witness unto all men of what thou hast seen and heard.
16 And now why tarriest thou? arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord.
17 And it came to pass, that, when I was come again to Jerusalem, even while I prayed in the temple, I was in a trance;
18 And saw him saying unto me, Make haste, and get thee quickly out of Jerusalem: for they will not receive thy testimony concerning me.
19 And I said, Lord, they know that I imprisoned and beat in every synagogue them that believed on thee:
20 And when the blood of thy martyr Stephen was shed, I also was standing by, and consenting unto his death, and kept the raiment of them that slew him.
21 And he said unto me, Depart: for I will send thee far hence unto the Gentiles.
22 And they gave him audience unto this word {i.e. “Gentiles”}, and then lifted up their voices, and said, Away with such a fellow from the earth: for it is not fit that he should live.

The Apostle Paul testified to the Jews (his brethren) that he both SAW & HEARD THE RISEN CHRIST!

Acts 22:30 On the morrow,because he would have known the certainty wherefore he was accused of the Jews, he loosed him from his bands, and commanded the chief priests and all their council to appear, and brought Paul down, and set him before them.

ACTS 23: THE APOSTLE PAUL’S DEFENCE BEFORE THE CHIEF PRIESTS & THE COUNCIL

Acts 23:1 And Paul, earnestly beholding the council, said, Men and brethren, I have lived in all good conscience before God until this day.
2 And the high priest Ananias commanded them that stood by him to smite him on the mouth.
3 Then said Paul unto him, God shall smite thee, thou whited wall: for sittest thou to judge me after the law, and commandest me to be smitten contrary to the law?
4 And they that stood by said, Revilest thou God's high priest?
5 Then said Paul, I wist not, brethren, that he was the high priest: for it is written, Thou shalt not speak evil of the ruler of thy people.
6 But when Paul perceived that the one part were Sadducees, and the other Pharisees, he cried out in the council, Men and brethren, I am a Pharisee, the son of a Pharisee: of the hope and resurrection of the dead I am called in question.
7 And when he had so said, there arose a dissension between the Pharisees and the Sadducees: and the multitude was divided.
8 For the Sadducees say that there is no resurrection, neither angel, nor spirit: but the Pharisees confess both.
9 And there arose a great cry: and the scribes that were of the Pharisees' part arose, and strove, saying, We find no evil in this man: but if a spirit or an angel hath spoken to him, let us not fight against God.
10 And when there arose a great dissension, the chief captain, fearing lest Paul should have been pulled in pieces of them, commanded the soldiers to go down, and to take him by force from among them, and to bring him into the castle.
11 And the night following the Lord stood by him, and said, Be of good cheer, Paul: for as thou hast testified of me in Jerusalem, so must thou bear witness also at Rome.

Charges and accusations made against Paul by the leaders of the nation of Israel (i.e. the high priest; the elders; and “a certain orator named Tertullus” – their 'mouthpiece'):

Acts 24:5 For we have found this man a pestilent fellow, and a mover of sedition among all the Jews throughout the world, and a ringleader of the sect of the Nazarenes:
6 Who also hath gone about to profane the temple: whom we took, and would have judged according to our law.
7 But the chief captain Lysias came upon us, and with great violence took him away out of our hands,
8 Commanding his accusers to come unto thee: by examining of whom thyself mayest take knowledge of all these things, whereof we accuse him.
9 And the Jews also assented, saying that these things were so.

According to the “charges” brought by the Jews against The Apostle Paul:  
•     Paul was “a pestilent fellow” {a personal attack on Paul’s character without any proof.}
•     Paul was “a mover of sedition among all the Jews” {an unsupported charge without evidence.}
•     Paul was “a ringleader of the sect of the Nazarenes” {so what “crime” did he commit?}
•     Paul went about “to profane the temple” {in what specific way did he “profane the temple?}

Did you notice that the Jews did not present one specific charge against Paul? Vague generalizations and personal attacks are TYPICAL of all naysayers, gainsayers, and sophists. This is the modus operandi of all cunning, deceitful, dishonest and disingenuous Humanists today. {And the reason why I say it is an exercise in futility to try to reason with naysayers, gainsayers, sophists, and/or Bible critics & correctors (lost or saved) – since they have no genuine interest in the truth!}

ACTS 24: THE APOSTLE PAUL’S DEFENCE BEFORE THE GOVERNOR (FELIX)
Please take note as to how Paul deals specifically with the generalized and unfounded charges brought against him.

Acts 24:10 Then Paul, after that the governor had beckoned unto him to speak, answered, Forasmuch as I know that thou hast been of many years a judge unto this nation, I do the more cheerfully answer for myself:
11 Because that thou mayest understand, that there are yet but twelve days since I went up to Jerusalem for to worship.
12 And they neither found me in the temple disputing with any man, neither raising up the people, neither in the synagogues, nor in the city:
13 Neither can they prove the things whereof they now accuse me.

14 But this I confess unto thee, that after the way which they call heresy, so worship I the God of my fathers, believing all things which are written in the law and in the prophets:

15 And have hope toward God, which they themselves also allow, that there shall be a resurrection of the dead, both of the just and unjust.

16 And herein do I exercise myself, to have always a conscience void of offence toward God, and toward men.
17 Now after many years I came to bring alms to my nation, and offerings.
18 Whereupon certain Jews from Asia found me purified in the temple, neither with multitude, nor with tumult.
19 Who ought to have been here before thee, and object, if they had ought against me.
20 Or else let these same here say, if they have found any evil doing in me, while I stood before the council,
21 Except it be for this one voice, that I cried standing among them, Touching the resurrection of the dead I am called in question by you this day.

Paul denied that he taught: “all the Jews which are among the Gentiles to forsake Moses”; he denied that he taught the Jews: “not to circumcise their children”; and he denied that he taught the Jews: not “to walk after the customs”. He also denied that he ever taught: “all men every where against the people {i.e. the Jews}, and the law, and this place” {i.e. the Temple}. Paul denied all of their charges and accusations! But in Acts 24:14 Paul does confess “that after the way which they call heresy, so worship I the God of my fathers, believing all things which are written in the law and in the prophets”. So the question arises just exactly WHAT was “the way” that the Jews called “heresy”, and to which the Apostle Paul freely confessed to?

If all of the charges brought against the Apostle Paul by the Jews were untrue (false); and if Paul denied all of the charges brought against him (which he did), then just exactly WHAT was the supposed “heresy” that Paul “confessed” to?

What saith the Scripture?

ACTS 26: THE APOSTLE PAUL’S DEFENCE BEFORE KING AGRIPPA & GOVERNOR (FESTUS)

Acts 26:1 Then Agrippa said unto Paul, Thou art permitted to speak for thyself. Then Paul stretched forth the hand, and answered for himself:
2 I think myself happy, king Agrippa, because I shall answer for myself this day before thee touching all the things whereof I am accused of the Jews:
3 Especially because I know thee to be expert in all customs and questions which are among the Jews: wherefore I beseech thee to hear me patiently.
4 My manner of life from my youth, which was at the first among mine own nation at Jerusalem, know all the Jews;
5 Which knew me from the beginning, if they would testify, that after the most straitest sect of our religion I lived a Pharisee.
6 And now I stand and am judged for the hope of the promise made of God unto our fathers:
7 Unto which promise our twelve tribes, instantly serving God day and night, hope to come. For which hope's sake, king Agrippa, I am accused of the Jews.

8 Why should it be thought a thing incredible with you, that God should raise the dead?

9 I verily thought with myself, that I ought to do many things contrary to the name of Jesus of Nazareth.
10 Which thing I also did in Jerusalem: and many of the saints did I shut up in prison, having received authority from the chief priests; and when they were put to death, I gave my voice against them.
11 And I punished them oft in every synagogue, and compelled them to blaspheme; and being exceedingly mad against them, I persecuted them even unto strange cities.
12 Whereupon as I went to Damascus with authority and commission from the chief priests,
13 At midday, O king, I saw in the way a light from heaven, above the brightness of the sun, shining round about me and them which journeyed with me.
14 And when we were all fallen to the earth, I heard a voice speaking unto me, and saying in the Hebrew tongue, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me? it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks.
15 And I said, Who art thou, Lord? And he said, I am Jesus whom thou persecutest.
16 But rise, and stand upon thy feet: for I have appeared unto thee for this purpose, to make thee a minister and a witness both of these things which thou hast seen, and of those things in the which I will appear unto thee;
17 Delivering thee from the people, and from the Gentiles, unto whom now I send thee,
18 To open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in me.
19 Whereupon, O king Agrippa, I was not disobedient unto the heavenly vision:
20 But shewed first unto them of Damascus, and at Jerusalem, and throughout all the coasts of Judaea, and then to the Gentiles, that they should repent and turn to God, and do works meet for repentance.
21 For these causes the Jews caught me in the temple, and went about to kill me.
22 Having therefore obtained help of God, I continue unto this day, witnessing both to small and great, saying none other things than those which the prophets and Moses did say should come:

23 That Christ should suffer, and that he should be the first that should rise from the dead, and should shew light unto the people, and to the Gentiles.

Did you notice the one issue (the Resurrection) that was common throughout Acts 23, 24, & 26? I believe that herein lies the supposed “heresy” that the Apostle Paul confessed to: Most of the Jews (and the Pharisees) believed in a General Resurrection “at the last day” [John 11:24] and this belief (and hope) was a major “tenant” of their faith (the Sadducees being the exceptions). However, Paul was teaching that the Lord Jesus Christ had already been resurrected; and that Christ was “the first that should rise from the dead”! This was a “mystery” that had been hidden in the Old Testament Scriptures [Romans 16:25-26; 1Corinthians 2:7] - which the Jews in Paul’s day (and at the time of Christ also) refused to accept or believe. Hence - Paul’s teaching on Christ’s resurrection (and all of the "implications" that went along with it) was considered to be a “heresy”, i.e. a teaching that was contrary to one of the basic tenants of the Jews’ faith and it became a stumbling block to them. [1Peter 2:6-8]

Generally speaking – HERESY equals a belief in a “way” (a doctrine) that is contrary to a “fundamental” belief, tenant, precept, principal, or tradition of a religion. Biblical HERESY then would be a belief in a “way” (i.e. a doctrine) that is contrary to a major doctrine contained within the Holy Scriptures, and which is clearly understood and commonly accepted by all genuine Bible believers.

WEBSTER’S 1828 DICTIONARY:

HER'ESY, n. Gr. to take, to hold; L. haeresis.

1. A fundamental error in religion, or an error of opinion respecting some fundamental doctrine of religion. But in countries where there is an established church, an opinion is deemed heresy, when it differs from that of the church. The Scriptures being the standard of faith, any opinion that is repugnant to its doctrines, is heresy; but as men differ in the interpretation of Scripture, an opinion deemed heretical by one body of Christians, may be deemed orthodox by another. In Scripture and primitive usage, heresy meant merely sect, party, or the doctrines of a sect, as we now use denomination or persuasion, implying no reproach.

2. Heresy, in law, is an offense against Christianity, consisting in a denial of some of its essential doctrines, publicly avowed and obstinately maintained.

3. An untenable or unsound opinion or doctrine in politics.

In this particular case Webster “got it right”.

The Holy Scriptures equal The Truth; The Whole Truth; and Nothing but The Truth [John 17:17]; and any “way”, belief, or doctrine that is contrary to a major doctrine (i.e. tenant, precept, or principal) contained within the Holy Scriptures equals HERESY. There are no exceptions – regardless of anyone’s opinion to the contrary (lost or saved)!

1 Corinthians 11:19 For there must be also heresies among you, that they which are approved may be made manifest among you.

This verse [1 Corinthians 11:19] tells us why God allows heresies to crop up in the church, and shows the purpose that heresies serve: There “MUST” be heresies in order for Christians to discern “truth” from “error” (i.e. false doctrine); and to identify those Christians who are “approved” of God, from those who are NOT “approved” of God. Heresies “make manifest” (reveal) to the body of Christ those Christians who are genuine Bible believers and those who only give “lip service” to the Bible, but who are in truth Bible professing “Pretenders”.

Galatians 5:19 Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness,
20 Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies,
21 Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God.

The verses cited above demonstrate the indisputable importance that God has placed on heresies; and just how perverse, corrupt, and evil they truly are.

Heresy is NOT just (as some say): a “little mistake”, or a “slight error”, or “a mistaken opinion”, or “unbiblical teaching” or “problem causing”, or “an irrelevant issue”, or “likely illegal”, or “honest and sincere human error”, or “a tiny portion”, or “a misinterpretation of the Scriptures”, or just “wrong doctrine”, or “a doctrine that is way off-base”, or “simply . . . a single doctrine that is scripturally wrong”, or “just a little limb on the tree”!

Heresy is an abomination to God, and in God’s view, it is right up there along with the critical sins of adultery, fornication, hatred, drunkenness, idolatry, murder, etc., etc. Heresy cannot be dismissed as being irrelevant or not important enough to warrant following the Scriptural commands concerning it, just because “good” and “godly” men may embrace and promote it!

Do we attribute the titles: “good” and “godly” to those Christians who commit adultery, fornication, drunkenness, or murder? I trow not! Then, pray tell me, why do today’s Christians commend men who commit heresy?

2 Peter 2:1 But there were false prophets also among the people, even as there shall be false teachers among you, who privily shall bring in damnable heresies, even denying the Lord that bought them, and bring upon themselves swift destruction.

In the verse of Scripture above we have the words that God inspired the Apostle Peter to write about “heresies”. Oops, I forgot a “word”! The Apostle Peter actually called them: “DAMNABLE HERESIES”! That wasn’t very “Politically Correct” of Peter to say such a thing; unless - UNLESS ALMIGHTY GOD VIEWS HERESY (ANY HERESY) as being truly DAMNABLE, and  NOT like some of the terms or the many excuses that today’s Christians dream up in order to make the word of God of non effect. {See some of those “terms” and “excuses” listed above.}

Titus 3:10 A man that is an heretick after the first and second admonition reject;
11 Knowing that he that is such is subverted, and sinneth, being condemned of himself.

{TO BE CONTINUED}

[George]

HERESY & HERETICKS {Part II}

Now we come to the all important questions: Just exactly WHAT makes a man (or a woman) a Heretick? And just exactly WHO “qualifies” to be called a Heretick? Anyone (a professed believer) who believes in, or has embraced, or is following “a way” (i.e. a false doctrine) that is contrary to a major (i.e. a primary or crucial) Biblical Doctrine is a HERETIC  - regardless of WHO he (or she) may be, or WHAT he (or she) may have done for the Lord!

To be scripturally accurate - a heretic may not always be a “FALSE TEACHER”; he (or she) may keep his “heresy” to himself. However, church history, and the evidence of present day heretics, demonstrates that most Hereticks are “FALSE TEACHERS”; while “False Teachers” within genuine Bible believers’ ranks are always HERETICKS!

I have the hardest time understanding WHY born again children of God have so little fear of Almighty God in regards to maintaining doctrinal PURITY. Is there no fear of God in these men - who have the audacity to ADD to, or SUBTRACT from, or CHANGE the Holy words of God in order to promote their “False Teachings” (false doctrines)?

Are their consciences “seared”? Or have their consciences become so “defiled” that they are practically inoperable? The following verses demonstrate the paramount importance of embracing and teaching pure doctrine that is sound, uncorrupt, and faithful to God’s word.

1 Timothy 1:2 Unto Timothy, my own son in the faith: Grace, mercy, and peace, from God our Father and Jesus Christ our Lord.
3 As I besought thee to abide still at Ephesus, when I went into Macedonia, that thou mightest charge some that they teach no other doctrine,
4 Neither give heed to fables and endless genealogies, which minister questions, rather than godly edifying which is in faith: so do.
5 Now the end of the commandment is charity out of a pure heart, and of a good conscience, and of faith unfeigned:
6 From which some having swerved have turned aside unto vain jangling;
7 Desiring to be teachers of the law; understanding neither what they say, nor whereof they affirm.

Those men who have been called of God to teach and preach the word are COMMANDED to “teach no other doctrine”.

1 Timothy 1:18 This charge I commit unto thee, son Timothy, according to the prophecies which went before on thee, that thou by them mightest war a good warfare;
19 Holding faith, and a good conscience; which some having put away concerning faith have made shipwreck:
20 Of whom is Hymenaeus and Alexander; whom I have delivered unto Satan, that they may learn not to blaspheme.

Please notice that Paul did not hesitate to name names when it came to those men (hereticks) who were “shipwrecking” some of the brethrens' “faith”. {Heresies have serious destructive effects – they are not “harmless”, as some “Christians” would have you believe.}

1 Timothy 4:1 Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils;
2 Speaking lies in hypocrisy; having their conscience seared with a hot iron;

According to the Bible it is the responsibility of a “good minister of Jesus Christ” to remind the brethren of “these things” {False Doctrine - Heresy - i.e. “doctrines of devils”}.

1 Timothy 4:6 If thou put the brethren in remembrance of these things, thou shalt be a good minister of Jesus Christ, nourished up in the words of faith and of good doctrine, whereunto thou hast attained.

1 Timothy 4:11 These things command and teach.
12 Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity.
13 Till I come, give attendance to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine.
14 Neglect not the gift that is in thee, which was given thee by prophecy, with the laying on of the hands of the presbytery.
15 Meditate upon these things; give thyself wholly to them; that thy profiting may appear to all.
16 Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee.

Please notice the emphasis on “doctrine”. Christian elders/pastors are instructed to “give attendance” to, and take heed “unto the doctrine” - Not corrupt it with false teaching and private interpretations!

1 Timothy 5:1 Rebuke not an elder, but intreat him as a father; and the younger men as brethren;

1 Timothy 5:17 Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honour, especially they who labour in the word and doctrine.
18 For the scripture saith, Thou shalt not muzzle the ox that treadeth out the corn. And, The labourer is worthy of his reward.
19 Against an elder receive not an accusation, but before two or three witnesses.
20 Them that sin rebuke before all, that others also may fear.
21 I charge thee before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, and the elect angels, that thou observe these things without preferring one before another, doing nothing by partiality.

Did you notice the emphasis that God puts on those men (elders) who “labour” in the word and doctrine?

1 Timothy 6:3 If any man teach otherwise, and consent not to wholesome words, even the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the doctrine which is according to godliness;
4 He is proud, knowing nothing, but doting about questions and strifes of words, whereof cometh envy, strife, railings, evil surmisings,
5 Perverse disputings of men of corrupt minds, and destitute of the truth, supposing that gain is godliness: from such withdraw thyself.

Elders/pastors are to teach “wholesome words” that reflect sound doctrine - NOT teach False Doctrine to draw away disciples after themselves.

1 Timothy 6:20 O Timothy, keep that which is committed to thy trust, avoiding profane and vain babblings, and oppositions of science falsely so called:
21 Which some professing have erred concerning the faith. Grace be with thee. Amen.

2 Timothy 1:13 Hold fast the form of sound words, which thou hast heard of me, in faith and love which is in Christ Jesus.
14 That good thing which was committed unto thee keep by the Holy Ghost which dwelleth in us.
15 This thou knowest, that all they which are in Asia be turned away from me; of whom are Phygellus and Hermogenes.

Elders/pastors are to “Hold fast the form of sound words”. NOT ignore sound words to promote perverse words and corrupt doctrine. Notice again how Paul doesn’t hesitate to identify those men (hereticks) that were perverting God’s words - unlike many PC Christians of today.

2 Timothy 2:1 Thou therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus.
2 And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also.

2 Timothy 2:15 Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.
16 But shun profane and vain babblings: for they will increase unto more ungodliness.
17 And their word will eat as doth a canker: of whom is Hymenaeus and Philetus;
18 Who concerning the truth have erred, saying that the resurrection is past already; and overthrow the faith of some.
19 Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his. And, Let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity.
20 But in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and of silver, but also of wood and of earth; and some to honour, and some to dishonour.
21 If a man therefore purge himself from these, he shall be a vessel unto honour, sanctified, and meet for the master's use, and prepared unto every good work.

Please notice how Paul (once again) identifies those men who’s “word will eat as doth a canker”. Once again dispelling the reluctance on the part of many Christians today to confront hereticks, and REJECT them as the Holy Scriptures command us to! False Doctrine is destructive and can “eat as doth a canker” and possibly “overthrow the faith of some” – It is NOT HARMLESS (as claimed by some Christians today)!

2 Timothy 3:1 This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come.
2 For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy,
3 Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good,
4 Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God;
5 Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.

2 Timothy 3:12 Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.
13 But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived.
14 But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them;
15 And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.
16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:
17 That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.

2 Timothy 4:1 I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom;
2 Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine.
3 For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears;
4 And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.
5 But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.

I wonder just exactly what “time” the Scriptures are referring to here. It couldn’t possibly be here and now – could it? Or is this what is going on throughout most of the so-called “Fundamentalist” & “Evangelical” churches of today?

2 Timothy 4:14 Alexander the coppersmith did me much evil: the Lord reward him according to his works:
15 Of whom be thou ware also; for he hath greatly withstood our words.
16 At my first answer no man stood with me, but all men forsook me: I pray God that it may not be laid to their charge.

Once again Paul identifies a man who “greatly withstood our (Paul’s) WORDS”. The man was a “heretick” and Paul didn’t hesitate to name him for all to see, and as a warning to all. Quite a difference from the PC Christians of today – wouldn’t you say?

Titus 1:7 For a bishop must be blameless, as the steward of God; not selfwilled, not soon angry, not given to wine, no striker, not given to filthy lucre;
8 But a lover of hospitality, a lover of good men, sober, just, holy, temperate;
9 Holding fast the faithful word as he hath been taught, that he may be able by sound doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers.
10 For there are many unruly and vain talkers and deceivers, specially they of the circumcision:
11 Whose mouths must be stopped, who subvert whole houses, teaching things which they ought not, for filthy lucre's sake.
12 One of themselves, even a prophet of their own, said, The Cretians are alway liars, evil beasts, slow bellies.
13 This witness is true. Wherefore rebuke them sharply, that they may be sound in the faith;
14 Not giving heed to Jewish fables, and commandments of men, that turn from the truth.
15 Unto the pure all things are pure: but unto them that are defiled and unbelieving is nothing pure; but even their mind and conscience is defiled.
16 They profess that they know God; but in works they deny him, being abominable, and disobedient, and unto every good work reprobate.

We are to “hold fast the faithful word” – NOT subvert it with some “False Teaching”. We are to be “sound” in doctrine – NOT insist on teaching “a Pet Doctrine” and undermine the faith of the brethren with “False Doctrine”.

Titus 2:1 But speak thou the things which become sound doctrine:

We are to speak “sound doctrine” – NOT corrupt doctrine!

Titus 2:7 In all things shewing thyself a pattern of good works: in doctrine shewing uncorruptness, gravity, sincerity,
8 Sound speech, that cannot be condemned; that he that is of the contrary part may be ashamed, having no evil thing to say of you.

Our doctrine is to be uncorrupt – NOT leavened with lies and half-truths so as to deceive the brethren. Our speech must be “sound” – NOT so perverse as to cause the brethren to stumble.

Titus 2:15 These things speak, and exhort, and rebuke with all authority. Let no man despise thee.

There are times when warnings, admonishments, and reproofs may not be enough! There are those within our Christian ranks who seek to disrupt and destroy Christians’ faith, and who need to be rebuked, and we had better not be so PC as to be afraid of speaking plainly and rebuking those (hereticks) that are undermining the faith of many.

Titus 3:8 This is a faithful saying, and these things I will that thou affirm constantly, that they which have believed in God might be careful to maintain good works. These things are good and profitable unto men.
9 But avoid foolish questions, and genealogies, and contentions, and strivings about the law; for they are unprofitable and vain.
10 A man that is an heretick after the first and second admonition reject;
11 Knowing that he that is such is subverted, and sinneth, being condemned of himself.

A man that is a heretick MUST BE REJECTED for he is “subverted”, and he will seek to “subvert” all those around him - if he’s given the chance! There are no “IFS”, “ANDS”, or “BUTS” about this matter. Failure to obey the Scriptures in this matter can only lead to eventual Apostasy!

SUBVERT
Lamentations 3:36 To subvert a man in his cause, the Lord approveth not.

Acts 15:24 Forasmuch as we have heard, that certain which went out from us have troubled you with words, subverting your souls, saying, Ye must be circumcised, and keep the law: to whom we gave no such commandment:

2 Timothy 2:14 Of these things put them in remembrance, charging them before the Lord that they strive not about words to no profit, but to the subverting of the hearers.

Titus 1:11 Whose mouths must be stopped, who subvert whole houses, teaching things which they ought not, for filthy lucre's sake.

Titus 3:11 Knowing that he that is such is subverted, and sinneth, being condemned of himself.


LEAVEN
Matthew 13:33 Another parable spake he unto them; The kingdom of heaven is like unto leaven, which a woman took, and hid in three measures of meal, till the whole was leavened.

Matthew 16:6 Then Jesus said unto them, Take heed and beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees.

Matthew 16:11 How is it that ye do not understand that I spake it not to you concerning bread, that ye should beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees?

Matthew 16:12 Then understood they how that he bade them not beware of the leaven of bread, but of the doctrine of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees.

Mark 8:15 And he charged them, saying, Take heed, beware of the leaven of the Pharisees, and of the leaven of Herod.

Luke 12:1 In the mean time, when there were gathered together an innumerable multitude of people, insomuch that they trode one upon another, he began to say unto his disciples first of all, Beware ye of the leaven of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy.

Luke 13:21 It is like leaven, which a woman took and hid in three measures of meal, till the whole was leavened.

1 Corinthians 5:6 Your glorying is not good. Know ye not that a little leaven leaveneth the whole lump?

1 Corinthians 5:7 Purge out therefore the old leaven, that ye may be a new lump, as ye are unleavened. For even Christ our passover is sacrificed for us:

1 Corinthians 5:8 Therefore let us keep the feast, not with old leaven, neither with the leaven of malice and wickedness; but with the unleavened bread of sincerity and truth.

Galatians 5:9 A little leaven leaveneth the whole lump.

I ask anyone who has read this essay to consider:

•  Is there such a thing as harmless “leaven”?

•  When it comes to doctrine: is “leaven” ever portrayed in the Bible as being “good”?

•  Is a man who teaches a false doctrine a False Teacher?

•  Is a man who has embraced a false and pernicious doctrine a heretic?

•  If a man is guilty of teaching a irrefutable heresy does he get “a pass” (from God) just because he has done a “work” for God?

•  If a man is guilty of teaching heresy are we Christians supposed to ignore his“False Teachings” and continue to recommend him because he
   has done a “work” for God?

When we “search the Scriptures” about this issue we find a totally different “take” on heresy and hereticks than what is being urged by many Christians today. Whether today’s Christians oppose the clear Bible teaching concerning these things (including False Teachers, False Teachings, and False Doctrines) out of ignorance and obstinacy, or whether they oppose the Scriptural testimony concerning heresy and heretics through deliberate disobedience, we are to ignore all of their personal “advise” and private “opinions” and obey God rather than men.

In the end - we are answerable to God and to God only, and someday we shall see who will be “approved” and who will NOT!

Romans 14:4 Who art thou that judgest another man's servant? to his own master he standeth or falleth. Yea, he shall be holden up: for God is able to make him stand.


{TO BE CONTINUED}

[George]

HERESY & HERETICKS {Part III}

The following is a partial list of Heresies that I believe would qualify a person for being a Heretick.

A Heretick is a person who professes to believe in the Lord Jesus Christ and the major Bible doctrines but who embraces one or more of the following heresies. A Heretick is someone:

•  Who believes: that Mary was born without sin (the “immaculate conception”)
•  Who believes: that a wafer can be changed in to the body of Christ
•  Who believes: that wine can be changed in to the blood of Christ
•  Who believes: that the Roman Catholic “Mass” is efficacious with God
•  Who believes: that you must observe the Sabbath in order to be saved
•  Who believes:  that you must observe The Law in order to be saved
•  Who believes:  that you must perform some works in order to be saved
•  Who believes: that it is NOT necessary to be born again in order to be saved
•  Who believes: you must speak in tongues in order to be saved
•  Who believes: that you must be Baptized in Water in order to be saved
•  Who believes:  that you must be a member of their church to be saved or to be a member of the Bride of Christ
•  Who believes:  that God has two churches (one in Heaven & one on earth)
•  Who believes:  that a pastor is the head of the "local" church
•  Who believes:  that a pastor can replace the Lord Jesus Christ in His church


A Heretick is a person who professes to believe in the Lord Jesus Christ and the major Bible doctrines, but who does not believe in one or more of the following major doctrines. A Heretick is someone:

•  Who does not believe: in the Inspiration of The Holy Scriptures
•  Who does not believe: in the existence of Satan or devils (i.e. evil spirits)
•  Who does not believe: in the existence of Angels
•  Who does not believe: in HELL
•  Who does not believe: in HEAVEN
•  Who does not believe: in the eternal soul of man
•  Who does not believe: in the Biblical account of the Fall of Man
•  Who does not believe: in the existence of SIN (or man’s sinful nature)
•  Who does not believe: in the need for Redemption from Sin
•  Who does not believe: in the Biblical Flood
•  Who does not believe: in the record of the Biblical signs, wonders, & miracles
•  Who does not believe: in the existence of Evil
•  Who does not believe: in the Judgment of God
•  Who does not believe: in God’s institution of Marriage (between one man & one woman)


CONCERNING THE DOCTRINE OF CHRIST
A Heretick is a person who professes to believe in the Biblical Doctrines concerning the person of Lord Jesus Christ, but who does not believe in one or more of the following major doctrines pertaining to Christ.  A Heretick is someone who:

•  Does not believe: that Jesus Christ is the bodily manifestation of the “Godhead”
•  Does not believe: that Jesus Christ is the fullness of the Godhead bodily
•  Does not believe: that Jesus Christ is the Creator of all creation
•  Does not believe: in the Miraculous Conception & Virgin Birth of Jesus Christ
•  Does not believe: that Jesus Christ came as the Jews’ Messiah
•  Does not believe: that Jesus Christ is the ONE (& ONLY) SAVIOUR of the world
•  Does not believe: that Jesus Christ rose bodily (physically) from the grave
•  Does not believe: that Jesus Christ’s shed blood paid for all of their sins
•  Does not believe: that Jesus Christ is the ONE (& ONLY) HEAD of the church

There are many more examples, and some of the brethren might differ with me on some of my definitions, but these should suffice. A heretick may be “saved” but he (or she) is “skating on mighty thin ice”! I’m glad that God knows people’s hearts, since I often have a difficult time determining who is a heretic and who is an apostate.

1 Kings 8:39 Then hear thou in heaven thy dwelling place, and forgive, and do, and give to every man according to his ways, whose heart thou knowest; (for thou, even thou only, knowest the hearts of all the children of men.

2 Chronicles 6:30 Then hear thou from heaven thy dwelling place, and forgive, and render unto every man according unto all his ways, whose heart thou knowest; (for thou only knowest the hearts of the children of men.

Acts 1:24 And they prayed, and said, Thou, Lord, which knowest the hearts of all men, shew whether of these two thou hast chosen,

From the examples given above, (when it comes to a false doctrine) a Heretick is “awfully close” to being an Apostate; and sometimes it is extremely difficult to distinguish between the two. That is why (after the first and second admonition) we are commanded to REJECT a Heretick.

Titus 3:10 A man that is an heretick after the first and second admonition reject;

There is no “profit” to be gained from a heretick, no matter how much “good” he (or she) may have done (or is doing) for the Lord. According to the Holy Scriptures people who are hereticks are “subverted”, and they often “subvert” those people they come in contact with. That is why we are commanded to have nothing to do with them.

Titus 3:10 A man that is an heretick after the first and second admonition reject;
11 Knowing that he that is such is subverted, and sinneth, being condemned of himself.

I have had “differences” with some of the brethren over: “rightly dividing the word of truth”; the two Kingdoms (the Kingdom of God and the kingdom of heaven); the “rapture”; the Great Tribulation; Dispensationalism; the various Judgments; can a Christian drink wine; when the soul “begins”; the Bride of Christ; whether the soul “sleeps” or not; interpretation of 1 Corinthians 13:9-12; the difference between “faith” and “belief”; the use of Dictionaries and Greek and Hebrew Lexicons in determining the meaning of a Bible word; the so-called Gap theory; Interracial Marriage; Inspiration of the King James Bible; the difference between the Jews in Israel and elsewhere; and other matters or issues from the Bible. Just because we differ on these issues, I do not consider them to be hereticks and I would hope they feel the same about me.

I do not believe that every single difference between Christians constitutes Heresy on the part of one of them. Nor do I believe that all error embraced by a Christian constitutes Heresy. I can only conclude then, that a Heretick is someone who professes to believe in the Lord Jesus Christ and in the Bible, but who rejects, twists, or changes at least one major (i.e. “Fundamental”) Bible doctrine that is clearly defined and declared by Scripture and recognized, understood, and accepted by the vast majority of genuine Bible believers.

I do not consider someone who does not believe in the King James Bible just exactly the same way that I do to be a Heretick. I do not have power or “dominion” over other Christians. And I do not seek to dictate or control them.

2 Corinthians 1:24 Not for that we have dominion over your faith, but are helpers of your joy: for by faith ye stand.

I study the Bible and seek the guidance of the Holy Spirit (not the commentators) in trying to determine the truth from my studies. I may try to persuade others if I perceive that they may be in error, but in the end each of us is responsible to God to:

“Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” [2 Timothy 2:15]

As Christians, each of us has been given liberty from Almighty God, and we must determine for ourselves (from our studies of the Scriptures and seeking the Holy Spirit’s guidance) “what is truth”. I can not decide for someone else “what is truth”, each of us must be “fully persuaded” in our own minds and in our own hearts.

Romans 14:5 One man esteemeth one day above another: another esteemeth every day alike. Let every man be fully persuaded in his own mind.

When I come face to face with my Saviour at the Judgment Seat of Christ I do not want to be “ashamed” because I failed to “rightly divide the word of truth”. I want God’s approval, and that is why I am extremely careful and diligent in my Bible studies. I try hard not to jump to unfounded conclusions; or engage in supposition, assumption, conjecture, or speculation.

I try real hard to avoid having my schooling, culture, country, society, the media, and the world, or “Christian” commentators influence my understanding of the Scriptures. I do not believe that a person can know “all there is to know” about Bible doctrine in this life, but we can strive to embrace doctrine that is pure and sound.

Someday (soon, I hope) I will come "face to face" with my Saviour, and when I do, I will no longer "know in part". Some day (soon, I hope) I will "know, even as also I am known". Someday (soon, I hope) I will be able to see "clearly", instead of "through a glass darkly".

1 Corinthians 13:9 For we know in part, and we prophesy in part.
10 But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away.
11 When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things.
12 For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known.

Until the day that my Lord returns I am determined to KNOW the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth. I will continue to rely on the King James Bible as my sole source for "every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God" and it shall remain my FINAL AUTHORITY in all matters of faith and practice. And all the "naysayers", gainsayers, and sophists in the world are not going to affect me in the slightest.


Hosea 14:9 Who is wise, and he shall understand these things? prudent, and he shall know them? for the ways of the LORD are right, and the just shall walk in them: but the transgressors shall fall therein.

[Amos Tekoa]

i have a person whom rejects the King James Bible because he says it teaches Jesus went to hell, got any ideas on how to deal with this

[George]

Aloha Amos,

I have dealt with Bible skeptics for over 42 years now - it is an exercise in futility to try to "reason" with these kind of people, There is NO PROFIT in dealing with naysayers, gainsayers, Bible critics, or sophists.

By 2011 the King James Bible (AV1611) would have been in existence for 400 years!  Does this "person" believe that Almighty God has rejected The Book all of those years because of some flimsy excuse dreamed up by this "person"? I trow not.

Psalms 33:4 For the word of the LORD is right; and all his works are done in truth.

[Amos Tekoa]

I would have to totally agree with you, I evenally had to tell him he did not really believe that Jesus died, not really anyway